About the Code of Ethics

 The Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS® is a document that is universally recognized by lawyers and laymen as the measure of professionalism in the real estate industry.  However, it does not describe the lowest common denominator of permissible behavior, as do the licensing laws of the state.  Instead, it outlines the highest ideals of professional performance the public, and other REALTORS®, have a right to expect from REALTORS®.

This means that REALTORS® are held to a higher standard of conduct in the industry than are other real estate licensees.  In simple terms, REALTORS® are bound by the Code while other real estate agents are not.  For example, while the Idaho & Oregon Real Estate Commissions issue licenses to practice in Idaho & Oregon and enforce the statutes of the law, the National Association of REALTORS® controls the Code of Ethics.  In Payette, Washington, and Malheur Counties, the FOUR RIVERS ASSOCIATION of REALTORS® enforces it.

The first Code was adopted in 1913 as one of the fundamental objectives of the founders of the National Association of REALTORS®.  Since that time, it has served as a “golden thread” that binds REALTORS® together in a common, continuing quest for professionalism through the ethical obligations each REALTOR® voluntarily adopts when joining the association.  These obligations are based upon moral integrity, competent service to clients and customers, and dedication to the public’s interest and welfare.

Consisting of separate Articles, the Code has been amended many times to reflect changes in the real estate marketplace, the needs of property owners, and the values of society.  But its demand for high standards of professional conduct protecting the rights of clients and consumers, and safeguarding the rights of all consumers of real estate services, has not, and will never, change.

The Code of Ethics was amended in 1995 to divide the Code into three sections: duties to clients and customers, duties to the public, and duties to other REALTORS®.  These Articles create enforceable obligations and establish a standard of conduct that REALTORS® must satisfy.  They govern REALTORS®’ conduct in business, and failure to abide by them may result in disciplinary action.

The Grievance and Professional Standards Committees of the Four Rivers Association of REALTORS® oversee this compliance with the Code of Ethics.

To file a complaint with the Four Rivers Association of REALTORS®, please refer to the Code of Ethics to determine which, if any, articles have been violated.  Then complete the complaint form available in this section of the website.

The Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS® is a document that is universally recognized by lawyers and laymen as the measure of professionalism in the real estate industry.  However, it does not describe the lowest common denominator of permissible behavior, as do the licensing laws of the state.  Instead, it outlines the highest ideals of professional performance the public, and other REALTORS®, have a right to expect from REALTORS®.